Golden Retriever

Golden Retriever Grooming Profile

Golden Retrievers are large, active dogs reaching full physical maturity by age two. They have dense, water-repellent double coats and are heavy shedders requiring regular grooming and exercise, needing 1,300 to 1,700 daily calories carefully monitored for obesity.

Breed Group

Sporting Dogs

Country of Origin

Scotland, United Kingdom

Breed Size

Large

AKC Recognition

Yes, recognized in 1925

FCI Recognition

Yes, recognized in 1954

Allergy-friendly

Worst Choice

1 / 10

Shedding

Heavy

Grooming need

30 mins/week

7 / 10

Low-maintenance

Hard

3 / 10

Size

Large

7 / 10

Growth timeline

24 months

8 / 10

Grooming FAQ

Are Golden Retriever hypoallergenic or allergy-friendly?

Golden Retrievers are not hypoallergenic. They possess a dense water-repellent double coat that sheds heavily year-round, with significant "coat blows" during seasonal changes. This constant release of fur and dander makes them a challenging choice for allergy sufferers, as allergens easily spread throughout the home.

Allergy-friendly: 1 / 10

Do Golden Retriever shed?

Golden Retrievers are notorious shedders with thick, water-repellent double coats. They shed moderately year-round and experience heavy blowouts twice a year during seasonal changes. To manage the fur, owners should commit to brushing at least twice a week and daily vacuuming to keep their homes clean.

How often should you groom a Golden Retriever?

To maintain a Golden Retriever’s thick double coat, brush them at least once a week to prevent mats and manage shedding. They require a bath and light trimming of their ears, feet, and tail every four to six weeks. Never shave them, as their coat regulates temperature.

Grooming need: 7 / 10

Are Golden Retriever low-maintenance dogs?

Golden Retrievers are not low-maintenance dogs. They require significant time for daily exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom. Their thick double coats need brushing at least two to three times weekly, and their propensity for obesity requires careful monitoring of their caloric intake.

Low-maintenance: 3 / 10

How big do Golden Retriever get?

Golden Retrievers are medium-to-large sporting dogs with a sturdy, powerful build. Males typically stand 23 to 24 inches tall and weigh 65 to 75 pounds, while females reach 21.5 to 22.5 inches and weigh 55 to 65 pounds. They generally reach full size by two years of age.

Size: 7 / 10

When do Golden Retriever stop growing?

Golden Retrievers generally reach their full adult height between 12 and 18 months of age. While they stop growing taller during this period, they often continue to fill out, gain muscle, and develop their adult coat until they are approximately two years old.

Growth timeline: 8 / 10

How much should a Golden Retriever eat?

Adult Golden Retrievers typically need between 1,353 and 1,740 calories per day, divided into two meals. This amount varies based on their weight, age, and activity level. Because they are prone to obesity, careful portion control and regular exercise are essential for maintaining their health. The caloric range of 1,353 to 1,740 calories per day for an active adult.

Feeding amount: 6 / 10

How often should a Golden Retriever puppy eat?

Golden Retriever puppies require frequent meals to support their rapid growth. Puppies under 6 months should eat 3-4 meals daily, transitioning to 2 meals after 6 months using high-quality, large-breed puppy formula.

Puppy feeding frequency: 3 / 10

Vet Insights

Golden Retrievers are large, active dogs reaching full physical maturity by age two. They have dense, water-repellent double coats and are heavy shedders requiring regular grooming and exercise, needing 1,300 to 1,700 daily calories carefully monitored for obesity.

Dr. Vojtech Gabriel
Reviewed by
Dr. Vojtech Gabriel
DVM · PhD · MBA
VeterinarianResearcherDog breed specialist
Verified